Conifer Seed Bugs Attracting Attention

    Conifer seed bugs are a nuisance pest during the fall when they try to enter homes
for winter shelter. Ed Bowker (Fall River County Educator) is usually busy answering questions
about conifer seed bugs at this time of the year. Conifer seed bugs can be seen wherever
conifers are grown. I collected the insect shown above (click it for a larger picture) from
our window screen here at the Ag. Hall Building in Brookings. John Kangas also showed
me a specimen last week when we were in Kadoka for the alfalfa management meeting.

    The big size of the bug (about 3/4 inch long) scares a lot of homeowners. However, conifer
seed bugs feed mainly on the liquid content of developing seeds and fruits of conifers. I have not
heard of anyone being bitten by a conifer seed bug. Their syringe-like mouthparts are designed for
withdrawing sap from plants and not for piercing skin (e.g., masked hunter and bedbugs).

    Also common at this time are boxelder bugs, attic flies, and picture-winged flies. To avoid using
chemical sprays, make sure that your windows, siding, eaves, and doors are properly sealed. Any
insecticides labeled for indoor use can control overwintering insects inside the house. Be very
careful with using foggers at this time as the petroleum-based kinds have been known to start
fires if used excessively. If you like foggers, use the water-based kind. As always, read and follow
label directions carefully.

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